First Click

Silence. A subtle pulse in my talons. I tilted my snout upward, scanning the wide expanse of dark wood. Still. Cautious. Then—a snap in my joints. I shifted my weight forward. My curved claw tapped the glossy tabletop, producing a sharp, clean sound. It echoed back. Ahead sat a tray filled with tall, colorful pens. I took two swift, decisive strides toward the red base, leaning in to nudge the nearest white marker with my snout. It gave a faint rattle. I froze, chest tight, watching the quiet room.